Here’s what the U.S. Department of Justice says you can do to help your child:

• Spend quality time with your child
• Get involved in your child’s school activities
• Be a positive role model and set the right example
• Know your child’s friends and their families
• Encourage good study habits
• Teach your child how to cope with peer pressure
• Help your child develop good conflict/resolution skills
• Encourage your child to participate in positive afterschool activities with adult supervision (recreation centers, organized sports, youth groups)
• Take action in your neighborhood (create a neighborhood alliance, report and remove graffiti)
• Talk with your child about the dangers and consequences of gang involvement. Let your child know that you don’t want to see him or her hurt or arrested.

Explain to your child that he or she should NOT:

• Associate with gang members
• Attend parties or social events sponsored by gangs
• Use hand signs, symbols, or language that is meaningful to gangs
• Wear clothing, including specific colors, which may have meaning to gangs in your area

Source: U.S. Department of Justice

Related Articles:

• Warning Signs That Your Child May Be Involved With a Gang
• Gang Prevention 101: A School Approach
• What the Writing on the Wall Can Tell You
• Design Your Way to a Graffiti-Free Campus

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